First Civilian Attack of the Year Sparks Major Crackdown Across Kashmir Valley
Srinagar, February 5, 2025 – A day after suspected militants killed a retired soldier and injured his wife and niece in Kulgam, south Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir Police launched an unprecedented crackdown, detaining over 500 individuals across the Valley.
According to reports, many of those arrested are relatives of Kashmiri militants based in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). A senior police officer confirmed the large-scale detentions, stating that such measures serve as a warning to cross-border militant networks that such attacks will not be tolerated.
Attack on Retired Soldier’s Family
On Monday, unidentified gunmen targeted Manzoor Ahmad Wagay, a 45-year-old retired soldier, along with his wife and her niece, in Behibagh village, Kulgam. Wagay succumbed to gunshot wounds to his abdomen, while the two women suffered leg injuries and are undergoing treatment.
A police source described the attack as a serious provocation, emphasizing that militants have “crossed a red line” by targeting the family of a former soldier.
Strong Condemnation from Political Leaders
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha condemned the attack.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic killing of ex-serviceman Manzoor Ahmad Wagay. My heartfelt condolences to his family, and prayers for the swift recovery of his injured wife and niece. Such heinous violence has no place in our society and must be condemned in the strongest terms,” Abdullah posted on X.
Unprecedented Detention of Militants’ Relatives
While authorities have previously seized properties of Pakistan-based militants, this is the first time such a large-scale detention of their relatives has been carried out. This tough stance underscores the government’s determination to curb militant activities and bolster security in the region.
With tensions escalating, security forces remain on high alert, and further crackdowns are expected as part of ongoing counterterrorism efforts.
